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King oyster mushroom

Pleurotus eryngii

A species of Oysters, Also known as French horn mushroom, Trumpet royale, Aliʻi oyster

The king oyster mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii) is an edible mushroom widely prized for its flavor, which can be compared to scallops. It can be found wild in the warmer temperate zones of the world, and is also cultivated, growing on straw, for commercial use. The particular way in which this species decomposes plant matter may also have industrial applications.

Cap Diameter:

2 - 20 cm

Odor:

Mild, reminiscent of porcini mushrooms.

General Info About King oyster mushroom

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Attributes of King oyster mushroom

Cap Diameter

2 - 20 cm

Height

5 - 18 cm

Cap

Thick; white; smooth

Cap Surfaces

Smooth, Velvety

Gills

Decurrent; whitish to cream or buff

Gill Attachment

Decurrent

Stem

Thick, meaty; white

Stem Shapes

Club Shaped

Ring

Ringless

Spore Print Color

White

Odor

Mild, reminiscent of porcini mushrooms.

Body Color

Brown

White

Flesh Bruises

The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.

Growth Form

Solitary, Gregarious, Clustered

Nutrient Gathering

Saprophytic

Species Status

Cultivated widely

Endangered Species

How to Identify King oyster mushroom

Fruiting Body Cap Gills

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Habitat of King oyster mushroom

The king oyster mushroom occurs in woods and cultivated areas. Even if it seems terrestrial, it actually grows from the roots of trees, mostly deciduous ones.

Distribution Area of King oyster mushroom

Southern Eurpe, North Africa, southweastern Asia

Uses of King oyster mushroom

King oyster mushroom is a highly esteemed edible mushroom, favored for its firm texture and savory flavor. It's widely used in culinary dishes, especially in gourmet cooking. This species is cultivated and available year-round, making it a valuable ingredient beyond its seasonal wild availability. King oyster mushroom is popular among chefs and home cooks alike, often featured in stir-fries, soups, and as a meat substitute. Its collection value lies in its versatility and nutritional benefits, including high protein content.

Scientific Classification of King oyster mushroom

Phylum

Club fungi

Class

Mushroom-forming fungi

Order

Gilled fungi

Family

The tree mushroom family

Genus

Oysters

Toxicity and Edibility of King oyster mushroom

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Edibility of King oyster mushroom

King oyster mushroom is prized and delicious, with a taste similar to fresh scallops. The flavor and texture are best when the mushroom is young. It can be sauteed, fried, roasted, and more, and it makes a great vegan seafood substitute. It has a good shelf life and is commonly cultivated for culinary use.

Similar Species to King oyster mushroom

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Tips for Finding King oyster mushroom

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When is the Best Time to Find King oyster mushroom

Search for king oyster mushroom during late summer to autumn after periods of rain. They thrive when days are warm and nights cool, but not freezing. Morning foraging can yield fresher specimens.

What are the Ideal Soil Conditions for King oyster mushroom

Prefers rich, well-drained soils.

What are Some Tips for Finding King oyster mushroom

Investigate areas with grassy lands, particularly where umbelliferous plants may reside.
Explore along roadsides and cleared fields that receive good sunlight.
Inspect areas around old or dying umbellifer plants, as king oyster mushroom may be growing nearby.
Look for king oyster mushroom's distinctive cap shape and coloring; they tend to blend into their environment.

How to Clean and Preserve King oyster mushroom

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How to Clean King oyster mushroom

King oyster mushroom should be gently cleaned to protect their structure. If the king oyster mushroom is of good quality, a simple brush or wipe with a paper towel can remove debris. For more thorough cleaning, briefly rinse under running water, then pat dry immediately to avoid water absorption and maintain their firm texture.

Tips on Dry Preservation of King oyster mushroom

Drying Methods

Dehydrator Drying, Oven Drying, Air Drying

Drying Duration

6 - 12 months

Store in an airtight container at room temperature, away from light, in a dry place.

Dehydrator drying: Ensures even and rapid moisture removal suitable for high water content.

Oven drying: Good for batches, control of temperature accelerates drying process.

Air drying: Best in dry and warm climates with good air circulation; more time-consuming.

Tips on Freezing Preservation of King oyster mushroom

Freezing Methods

Blanching Before Freezing

Freezing Duration

10 - 12 months

Blanching before freezing: Briefly heat to denature enzymes, cool, then freeze.

Tips on Refrigeration Preservation of King oyster mushroom

Refrigerating Methods

Paper Bag Storage, Perforated Plastic Bag Storage, Crisper Drawer Storage, Cardboard Box Storage

Temperature

2 - 4 ℃

Refrigerating Humidity

85 - 95 %

Refrigerating Duration

7 - 10 days

Paper Bag Storage: Allows airflow to prevent moisture buildup, reducing spoilage.

Perforated Plastic Bag Storage: Small holes provide air exchange, balancing humidity and dryness.

Crisper Drawer Storage: The fridge's crisper drawer protects from dehydration while maintaining a stable environment.

Cardboard Box Storage: An opaque container minimizes exposure to light and can absorb excess moisture.

Common Questions People Also Ask

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What does king oyster mushroom taste like?

Can you eat king oyster mushroom raw?

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